5 Ways to Avoid Getting Busted for Pot

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4. Don't Do Dumb Stuff in Public

When the temptation to put fun before common sense takes over, the consequences can be quick and vicious. Knowing your rights can increase your odds of avoiding trouble, but if officers actually observe you committing a crime, the only tip I can give you is to call a good lawyer. If police see, smell, or hear evidence of criminal activity, that's all the grounds they need to search and arrest you.

Remember that good herb reeks, literally spilling a cloud of probable cause in every direction. Lighting up in cars, parks, dorms and other exposed areas is just asking for trouble. Some regions are more lenient than others, but don't push your luck, and don't assume it's okay just because you see others doing it. I've seen people get popped for pot in Berkeley of all places, so remember there are no drug-war-free zones in America yet. Be cool, and watch your back.

5. Don't Snitch on Yourself

It's tempting to think that honesty will win you some points with police. Heck, they'll even promise to cut you a break in exchange for a straight answer. But coming clean is a mistake you'll regret seconds later when they order you to put your hands behind your back. Most people don't think pot is a big deal, so it's easy for the cops to convince you they don't care about it either. But it's their job to bust you for pot, and they're allowed to lie if necessary to trick you into cooperating. If they didn't care, they wouldn't ask.

If police are asking you incriminating questions, just politely tell them you choose to remain silent until  you've spoken with a lawyer.

This is the most helpful advice I can give for protecting yourself from the tricks police use to bust millions of Americans for marijuana. But remember that knowing your rights and watching your back will only get you so far. Escaping unscathed from a scary police encounter also requires controlling your emotions and remaining calm and cool.

Maintaining a relaxed attitude is the key to pulling off tactics such as refusing searches, asking if you're free to go, and declining to answer incriminating questions. Even if you do everything right, there's still a chance you'll end up in court fighting for your freedom, but your odds of winning will be far greater if you've calmly asserted your rights throughout the encounter.

I’d like to hear any strategies I might have missed. What's your favorite tip for preventing a pot bust?